Netanyahu Announces Meeting with Trump to Advance Second Phase of Gaza Peace Plan

Violence has diminished though not entirely ceased since the implementation of the Gaza ceasefire on October 10.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday his upcoming meeting with President Donald Trump later this month, indicating that the second phase of the U.S. president's Gaza plan is approaching completion.

During a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Netanyahu stated that the meeting would explore potential peace opportunities and strategies to end Hamas's control in the Gaza enclave.

Ongoing negotiations continue regarding subsequent stages of Trump's plan to conclude the two-year conflict in the Palestinian territory. This comprehensive plan also encompasses the liberation of Israeli hostages, establishment of a provisional technocratic Palestinian administration in Gaza, supervision by an international "board of peace," and support from an international security force.

"I will be engaging in crucial discussions at the month's end regarding how to ensure the achievement of the second phase," Netanyahu emphasized.

He further remarked that the initial phase of Trump's plan was nearing completion.

While violence has decreased, it has not completely halted since the Gaza truce became effective on October 10.

Following the truce implementation, Hamas has returned all 20 surviving hostages and 27 bodies in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian detainees and prisoners. One hostage's remains still remain in Gaza.